AsiaPacific

Asia-Pacific, commonly abbreviated APAC, refers to a vast geographic and economic region that spans East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Oceania. In business and policy contexts, it denotes markets and economies around the Pacific Ocean and surrounding zones. The exact scope varies by organization but typically includes major economies of Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and many Pacific Island nations.

Major subregions and economies include East Asia (China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan); Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, and others); South Asia (India, Bangladesh, Pakistan); and Oceania (Australia, New Zealand, and numerous Pacific Island states). The region comprises diverse economic structures, ranging from advanced economies to rapidly industrializing markets.

Demographics and economy: The region accounts for a substantial share of global population and economic activity, with manufacturing, services, and digital sectors playing large roles. China and Japan are among the largest economies; India is a rapidly growing market; Australia and South Korea are established advanced economies; Southeast Asian economies have experienced rapid growth and increasing regional integration.

Trade and integration: APAC hosts major multilateral and regional initiatives such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) with 21 member economies and regional trade agreements like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The region is a major hub for maritime trade, logistics, energy resources, and increasingly digital commerce.

Challenges and trends: The region faces rapid urbanization, demographic shifts, climate change risks to coasts and small island states, and ongoing transitions toward digital economies and sustainable growth. It is culturally and linguistically diverse, with a wide range of social and political systems.